Category: Spain

When I planned my trip to Southern Spain (Andalucía), Granada was not in my list. But only after visiting Alhambra in Granada I realized that it is a must visit destination.

Alhambra is epitome of Moorish architecture, a sprawling 14th century palace and fortress complex in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, trip to southern Spain would be incomplete without a visit to Alhambra.

The Alhambra was so-called because of its reddish walls, in Arabic Alhambra means Red Castle.

What make Alhambra great are its enchanting Garden full of beautiful flowers, sweet sound of water from the fountains, chirping birds everywhere, patios with beautiful walkways and mesmerizing city view from the Alhambra. It makes you feel like you are also a part of something royal.

Alhambra is divided in 4 sections: Nasrid Palaces, Alcazaba (Fortress and Former Military Quarters), Partal Gardens, Generalife Palace and Gardens (Garden of paradise) and you need at least 6 hours to visit entire Alhambra. I will advise to visit Generalife Palace and Gardens last as it is bit separated to other sections.

You should also visit The Charles V Palace, typical European style building, a sharp contrast to its Arab surroundings. You can also visit Alhambra museum which is a part of Charles V Palace.

If you want a full distant view of Alcazar then you need to go to Mirador San Nicolas, EL Albaicin which is located opposite to Alhambra. It is a picturesque square on an elevated hilltop boasting great sunset and Alhambra views.

It is very difficult to get tickets to the Alhambra as they have specific number of tickets sold per day. They have this limitation as only limited number of people can enter Nasrid place and some other places in Generalife Palace. Also they have time specific entry to Nasrid Palace and if you miss your slot then you will be denied entry.

Spanish websites for Alhambra are pretty messy and complex, so I will be writing a Guide to Alhambra Tickets following this post.

I love to explore cities on foot hence I will advise you to walk up to the Alhambra, this way, you will get to know the city better and will get to know about other city landmarks which are not that well-known but are worth visit. If walking is not suitable for you then bus is an option. Bus service runs from City Center (starts near Granada Cathedral) and it goes up to entrance of Alhambra and it cost €1.2 (May2017).